Hello again. Based on several responses I am now thinking of going to Lake Como for 2 nights at the end of our 16 day vacation. We arrive in Milan mid day on a Thursday. WE arrive in Milan Malpensa . Should we rent a car or take a train to the Lake Como area? When I checked out the train route it looked like it arrived East of Lake Como. (I need to get a detailed train map and confirm options if any for our arrival in Lk Como) Then would we take a cab to our hotel destination? Or rent a car? I rather liked Bellagio but that seems like a bit of a hike. Any thoughts on a pretty town with lots of walking, etc. Thanks
Posted by
Alta Loma, CA, USA
1446 posts
We took a train from the Milan train station directly to Varenna (mid-lake area of Lake Como). Not sure about the trains directly from the Malpensa airport as we took the train from the Milan train station.
We stayed in Varenna & the walk wasn't bad from the train station to our hotel. I enjoyed staying in Varenna because it's very quaint and laid back. Varenna also has a lake-front promenade which is nice for walking. But, it's right across the lake from Bellagio so if you'd prefer to stay in Bellagio, you can take a ferry to it. We were there for 2 days & visited Bellagio, Menaggio and Villa Carlotta. Loved Varenna & would stay there again. Stayed at Albergo Milano & splurged for a room with a lake-front balcony; it was heaven. Have a great trip.
Posted by
Richmond, Ky, USA
278 posts
Barbara, Take the shuttle from Malpensa to Milano centrale. Enter the main terminal and get your tickets for Varenna. It is only @1hr to Varenna, and only a short walk downhill to several fine hotels(we really loved albergo oliveda, but some had issues with the hostess Laura). Oliveda is right on the water, and at the ferry landing, perfect for cruising the lake on the oft running ferry. Bellagio, and Mennagio are just a short pleasant ride across the water. Do not miss the castle above the town, and the pumpkin Gnocchi at Oliveda are some of the best I've had. Enjoy! Caio, Jeff
Posted by
Argegno, Lake Como, Como, Italy
7 posts
The train from Malpensa is quite straightforward, but does involve a change. Follow this link for full travel info to get to Lake Como by car or train - http://www.lakecomoproperties.com/mapsdirections/
In terms of location, I would highy reccomend Argegno as alovely place to stay - quaint lakeside village and value for money. It has a main ferry stop and so is very easy to get to all other parts of the lake. HAVE FUN
p.s. you may find this blog useul - all things to do with the lake - http://lakecomoexpert.blogspot.com/